Eden Hazard names Karim Benzema as best teammate during playing career

Former Chelsea F.C. star Eden Hazard has described Karim Benzema as the best teammate he played alongside during his career, while also naming Lionel Messi as the most difficult opponent he ever faced.

Hazard’s career came to an early end during his time at Real Madrid, with the Belgian forced to retire at the age of 32 after struggling with a series of injuries. The forward had joined the Spanish giants from Chelsea in the summer of 2019 in a transfer worth €150 million.

Despite spending four seasons at Real Madrid between 2019 and 2023, Hazard was unable to consistently display the form that made him one of Europe’s most exciting players, largely due to recurring fitness setbacks.

Reflecting on the best teammates he played with during his time at both Chelsea and Real Madrid, Hazard mentioned several high-profile names, including Luka Modrić, Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba and Samuel Eto’o. However, he ultimately singled out Benzema as the standout among them.

“In matches or training, Benzema’s level was high,” Hazard told L’Équipe.

He added, “Whether in matches or training, Benzema’s level has been amazing. When I’m with him on the field, I say ‘Wow,’ it’s true artistry.”

Hazard also revealed that Messi was the toughest opponent he encountered during his playing days, particularly during encounters in the UEFA Champions League while he was still a Chelsea player.

He recalled the round of 16 clash in 2018 when Messi scored twice to help FC Barcelona eliminate the London side from the competition.

Looking back on his time in Spain, Hazard admitted that one of his biggest regrets was never experiencing a special moment at the Santiago Bernabeu where the crowd rose to applaud one of his performances.

Injuries, he acknowledged, ultimately prevented him from fulfilling that dream during his spell with Real Madrid.